Hospitals perform craniotomy as a vital neurosurgical operation by temporarily removing parts of the skull to access the brain. Medical personnel conduct this surgery to treat brain tumours with aneurysms, traumatic brain injuries, and neurological disorders, alongside other conditions. For complete financial preparation, patients, together with their families, need to know all related expenses of craniotomy surgery conducted in India. The provided blog presents complete cost information about craniotomy surgery in Indian medical facilities, together with price comparisons and operational cost analysis, along with details about leading medical centres performing this surgical operation.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Surgery Process
- Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
- Breakdown of Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
- Different Types of Craniotomy Surgeries in India
- Factors Affecting Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
- Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries
- City-Wise Cost Estimate in India
- 10 Best Hospitals for Craniotomy Surgeries in India
- Conclusion
- FAQs Related to Craniotomy Surgery & Costs
Understanding the Surgery Process

The craniotomy surgical procedure consists of multiple essential steps, which include:
1. Pre-operative Preparation: The patient requires pre-operative testing with MRI or CT scans to specify the brain’s condition, location, and precise nature.
2. Anesthesia Administration: General anaesthesia provides anaesthesia administration before craniotomy surgery to maintain patient unconsciousness with complete pain control.
3. Incision & Bone Flap Removal: A surgeon performs an incision across the scalp, followed by removing a bone section through which they access the brain space.
4. Treatment Of The Brain Condition: The surgical staff performs either tumour extraction or aneurysm surgical repair as part of brain condition therapy.
5. Closure: The surgeon puts back the bone flap before fixing it and closing the scalp incision with sutures.
6. Post-Operative Care: After surgery, the medical team will observe the patient under intensive care because it allows them to detect possible medical issues while the patient starts the recovery process.
Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
Craniotomy surgery cost throughout India depends on how complex the medical situation is and which medical institution and geographic area manage the operation. The analysis presents the following cost information:
Minimum Cost: Approximately ₹80,000
- This represents a craniotomy performed in basic facilities or government medical centres.
Average Cost: Approximately ₹2,00,000
- This range reflects the craniotomy surgery cost in private hospitals of mid-level quality.
Maximum Cost: Approximately ₹4,50,000
- This denotes the maximum craniotomy surgery cost in advanced health centres that feature advanced medical services.
Breakdown of Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India
The total Craniotomy surgery cost in India encompasses several components, each contributing to the final amount. Below is a breakdown of these components with their respective cost ranges:
Cost Component | Which May Include | Cost Range (₹) |
Pre-Operative Tests | Consultations, diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), and laboratory tests. | ₹10,000 – 25,000 |
Surgical Procedure | Surgeon’s fees, anesthesia charges, and operation theater expenses. | ₹1,50,000 – 3,00,000 |
Hospital Stay | Room charges, nursing care, and meals during the hospital stay. | ₹20,000 – 50,000 |
Post-operative Care | Medications, follow-up visits, rehabilitation, and any necessary physiotherapy. | ₹15,000 – 40,000 |
Note: These approximate figures can vary based on individual cases and hospital policies.
Different Types of Craniotomy Surgeries in India
Different types of Craniotomy surgeries are performed based on the surgical approach & clinical requirements:
1. Stereotactic Craniotomy
- Procedure: Utilizes 3D imaging to precisely locate and treat deep-seated brain lesions.
- Benefits: Minimally invasive with high accuracy.
- Disadvantages: Requires specialized equipment and expertise.
- Estimated Cost in India: ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,50,000
2. Awake Craniotomy
- Procedure: Performed while the patient is awake to monitor brain function in real-time.
- Benefits: Reduces the risk of neurological deficits.
- Disadvantages: Psychologically challenging for the patient.
- Estimated Cost in India: ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,00,000
3. Endoscopic Craniotomy
- Procedure: Involves the use of an endoscope for accessing and treating brain conditions through small openings.
- Benefits: Less invasive with quicker recovery.
- Disadvantages: Limited to specific conditions and requires advanced technology.
- Estimated Cost in India: ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,80,000
4. Keyhole Craniotomy (Minimally Invasive)
- Procedure: Small incision and opening to access the brain, often used for tumor removal.
- Benefits: Reduced trauma and faster healing.
- Disadvantages: Not suitable for all types of brain conditions.
- Estimated Cost in India: ₹2,20,000 – ₹3,70,000
Factors Affecting Craniotomy Surgery Cost in India

Several elements determine the total Craniotomy surgery cost in India.
1. Hospital Infrastructure
- Advanced medical equipment increases facility costs, as well as modern operating theaters and high-end ICUs do because they deliver specialized care through improved infrastructure.
- Hospitals with private healthcare services, including luxurious amenities, charge more than hospitals operated by the government or smaller medical facilities that maintain basic infrastructure.
2. Surgeon’s Expertise
- Medical professionals with many years of neurosurgical practice who achieve consistently excellent results typically demand additional payment at each stage of patient care.
- The clinical competence of surgeons guarantees risk reduction in surgeries, resulting in improved results, although surgeons who are beginners at work in government hospitals typically charge lower fees.
3. Type Of Craniotomy
- The price of the procedure depends on its complexity because endoscopic and stereotactic craniotomies with advanced technology systems require higher expenses.
- The implementation of awake craniotomy surgery generates higher expenses because it necessitates both specific monitoring tools and additional specialist workers throughout the operation.
4. Duration Of Hospital Stay
- Hospital costs increase substantially whenever patients need extended ICU stays alongside routine daily assessments from nurses.
- Patients who develop hospital complications or need detailed rehabilitation services will need longer hospital stays, which will raise the total healthcare costs.
5. Pre- & Post-Operative Care
- The initial surgical expenses are elevated because of preoperative tests, including MRIs and CT scans, and blood tests and postoperative treatment involves pharmaceuticals and physiotherapy along with various follow-up exams.
- Rehabilitation requirements, together with intensive monitoring services, lead to elevated long-term patient healthcare costs.
6. Geographical Location
- Urban hospitals in cities such as Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru maintain higher hospital costs through their operations along with expanded patient base demands.
- The healthcare facilities in smaller cities and towns provide less expensive neurosurgical treatment, yet their medical facilities remain limited.
7. Insurance Coverage
- The insurance plan of a patient enables significant cost reduction by paying for surgery expenses alongside hospitalization, and post-operative medical care.
- The scope of insurance coverage depends on specific policy conditions and insurer-excluded services in addition to agreements between facilities and health insurance carriers.
Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries
Craniotomy surgery costs vary significantly across different countries. Below is a comparison of approximate costs:
Country | Approximate Cost (₹) |
India | ₹1,00,000 – 4,50,000 |
United States | ₹15,00,000 – 30,00,000 |
United Kingdom | ₹12,00,000 – 25,00,000 |
Germany | ₹10,00,000 – 22,00,000 |
- Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual cases and hospital policies.
- India offers cost-effective medical care without compromising on quality, making it a preferred destination for medical tourists seeking neurosurgical procedures.
City-Wise Cost Estimate in India
The cost of craniotomy surgery in India varies significantly across different cities, influenced by factors such as the hospital’s infrastructure, the surgeon’s expertise, and the overall cost of living in the area. Below is a comparison of estimated costs in various Indian cities:
City | Minimum Cost (₹) | Average Cost (₹) | Maximum Cost (₹) |
Mumbai | ₹1,05,000 | ₹2,40,000 | ₹4,50,000 |
Delhi | ₹90,000 | ₹1,85,000 | ₹3,40,000 |
Bengaluru | ₹90,000 | ₹1,65,000 | ₹3,00,000 |
Hyderabad | ₹1,00,000 | ₹1,85,000 | ₹3,00,000 |
Chennai | ₹1,00,000 | ₹1,43,000 | ₹2,50,000 |
Kolkata | ₹80,000 | ₹1,43,000 | ₹2,50,000 |
Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on individual cases and hospital policies.
10 Best Hospitals for Craniotomy Surgeries in India
Here is a list of the top 10 hospitals in India, renowned for craniotomy surgery:
1. Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram
- Established Year: 2009
- History: Founded by Dr. Naresh Trehan, a globally acclaimed cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgeon, Medanta was established with the vision of delivering world-class healthcare.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: Medanta has performed over 10,000 neurosurgical operations, including complex craniotomies, under the leadership of distinguished neurosurgeons like Dr. Sudhir Dubey.
- Milestones: Recognized as the Best Private Hospital in India for six consecutive years (2020-2025) and featured in Newsweek’s list of top 250 World’s Best Hospitals in 2024.
- Innovations: Pioneered endoscopic and minimally invasive surgeries for brain and skull base procedures, enhancing patient recovery and outcomes.
- Accreditations: Joint Commission International (JCI) and National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) accredited, reflecting adherence to global healthcare standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: Awarded Best Hospital for Neurosurgery and Neurology by India Today in 2018.
2. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
- Established Year: 1983
- History: As one of Asia’s foremost healthcare providers, Apollo Hospitals has been at the forefront of medical innovation and excellence.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: Successfully performed numerous complex brain surgeries, utilizing advanced neurosurgical techniques like neuro-navigation and neuroendoscopy.
- Milestones: Achieved over 6,000 robotic procedures, marking a significant advancement in surgical precision and patient care.
- Innovations: Introduced robotic-assisted surgeries, enhancing the accuracy and outcomes of neurosurgical procedures.
- Accreditations: First hospital in India to receive ISO 9001:2008 certification, demonstrating a commitment to quality management systems.
- Awards & Recognitions: Received the Best COVID-19 Response Award at the Moneycontrol Family Business Leader Awards in 2021.
3. Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Gurugram
- Established Year: 2012
- History: FMRI is a multi-speciality, quaternary care hospital known for its advanced medical technology and comprehensive healthcare services.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: Recognized for performing complex neurosurgical procedures, including craniotomies, with high success rates.
- Milestones: Ranked 2nd among the 30 most technologically advanced hospitals globally.
- Innovations: Known as the ‘Mecca of Healthcare,’ FMRI integrates cutting-edge technology with patient-centric care.
- Accreditations: Accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) and National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH), ensuring adherence to international healthcare standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: Received the ‘Green Hospital’ award from the Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI) in 2014.
4. Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi
- Established Year: 2006
- History: Max Hospital is a leading healthcare institution offering comprehensive medical services across various specialties.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: Provides unparalleled patient care and has a team of top-notch specialists performing advanced craniotomy surgeries.
- Milestones: Achieved recognition for excellence in neurosurgery and patient care.
- Innovations: Incorporates cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive techniques in neurosurgical procedures.
- Accreditations: Accredited by NABH, JCI, and NABL, reflecting high standards in patient safety and quality care.
- Awards & Recognitions: Consistently ranked among the top hospitals in India for neurosurgical excellence.
5. Artemis Hospital, Gurugram
- Established Year: 2007
- History: Artemis Hospital is a leading healthcare institution in Gurugram, known for its advanced medical technologies and patient-centric approach.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: The hospital’s neurosurgery department is recognized for performing complex craniotomies with high success rates, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.
- Milestones: Artemis was the first hospital in Haryana to receive accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) within three years of its inception.
- Innovations: The hospital has implemented advanced surgical techniques and technologies, including minimally invasive procedures, to enhance patient outcomes.
- Accreditations: Artemis holds accreditations from both NABH and Joint Commission International (JCI), reflecting its commitment to international healthcare standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: The hospital has received multiple accolades, including the Best Bone Marrow Transplant Centre in North India at India’s Most Trusted Healthcare Awards in 2019.
6. BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi
- Established Year: 1959
- History: BLK-Max is one of the largest tertiary care private hospitals in India, offering a wide spectrum of advanced medical services.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: Equipped with state-of-the-art neurosurgical units, BLK-Max has a track record of successfully performing complex craniotomies.
- Milestones: The hospital has achieved significant success in neurosurgical procedures, contributing to its reputation as a center of excellence.
- Innovations: BLK-Max incorporates advanced imaging and surgical technologies to enhance the precision and safety of craniotomy procedures.
- Accreditations: The hospital is accredited by NABH and NABL, ensuring adherence to high-quality healthcare standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: Recognized for excellence in neurosurgery and patient care services.
7. Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru
- Established Year: 1991
- History: Manipal Hospital is a part of the Manipal Health Enterprises and is known for its comprehensive healthcare services in South India.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: The hospital’s neurosurgery department has extensive experience in performing craniotomies, utilizing advanced surgical techniques.
- Milestones: Manipal Hospital has been at the forefront of adopting new technologies and procedures in neurosurgery, enhancing patient outcomes.
- Innovations: The hospital employs neuronavigation and intraoperative imaging to improve the accuracy of craniotomy surgeries.
- Accreditations: Accredited by NABH and NABL, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.
- Awards & Recognitions: Consistently ranked among the top hospitals for neurosurgery in India.
8. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
- Established Year: 1996
- History: Part of the Apollo Hospitals Group, Indraprastha Apollo is a multi-specialty tertiary care hospital offering a wide range of medical services.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: The hospital has a dedicated neuroscience center that has successfully performed numerous craniotomy surgeries.
- Milestones: Indraprastha Apollo was among the first in India to introduce technologies like PET-CT and has a robust organ transplant program.
- Innovations: The hospital utilizes advanced neurosurgical techniques and equipment, including intraoperative MRI and minimally invasive surgery options.
- Accreditations: It is JCI-accredited, ensuring compliance with international healthcare quality standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: Recognized for excellence in healthcare services and patient care.
9. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
- Established Year: 2009
- History: Kokilaben Hospital is a premier, multi-specialty healthcare facility known for its comprehensive medical services and advanced technology.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: The hospital’s Centre for Neurosciences offers advanced craniotomy procedures with a focus on precision and patient safety.
- Milestones: Achieved a high success rate in complex neurosurgical procedures, contributing to its reputation as a center of excellence.
- Innovations: Incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as advanced neuronavigation systems and intraoperative monitoring to enhance surgical outcomes.
- Accreditations: Accredited by JCI and NABH, reflecting adherence to high standards of healthcare delivery.
- Awards & Recognitions: Received multiple accolades for excellence in healthcare services and patient care.
10. Narayana Institute of Neurosciences, Bengaluru
- Established Year: 2000
- History: Narayana Institute of Neurosciences is part of Narayana Health City in Bengaluru, founded by Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty. It was established to provide specialized care in neurology and neurosurgery, aiming to make advanced neurological treatments accessible and affordable.
- Achievements In Craniotomy Procedures: The institute has a commendable record in performing complex craniotomy surgeries, addressing various neurological conditions with high success rates.
- Milestones: Over the years, Narayana Institute of Neurosciences has expanded its services and infrastructure, becoming a referral center for neurological disorders in the region.
- Innovations: The institute employs advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art technology, including neuronavigation systems and intraoperative imaging, to enhance the precision and safety of craniotomy procedures.
- Accreditations: Narayana Institute of Neurosciences is accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH), ensuring adherence to high-quality healthcare standards.
- Awards & Recognitions: The institute has received accolades for its contributions to neurology and neurosurgery, reflecting its commitment to excellence in patient care and medical education.
Get a list of top hospitals for different medical treatments and diagnostic procedures in our Comprehensive Guide to Treatment & Surgery Costs in India.
Conclusion
Different neurological conditions lead to the necessity of performing craniotomy surgery as a vital medical procedure. In India, patients can receive top-quality craniotomy surgery at prices much lower than what Western countries charge. The price of craniotomy surgery depends on different elements, including treatment type and the patients’ selected hospital and geographical location.
The process of planning craniotomy surgery in India demands that patients perform extensive research, along with seeking suggestions from different medical professionals to grasp the specific cost details. The method enables patients to make knowledgeable decisions, along with securing financial readiness before their operation.
Craniotomy surgery is a complex and life-saving procedure often required for conditions like brain tumors, aneurysms, or severe head injuries. However, its high cost can place a significant financial burden on patients and their families. Crowdfunding provides a way to gather the necessary financial support, ensuring access to critical treatment without delay.
FAQs Related to Craniotomy Surgery & Costs
1. What Is The Average Cost Of Craniotomy Surgery In India?
The procedure costs between ₹1,00,000 and ₹2,50,000 with different influencing elements.
Compare the average costs of different surgeries and tests with expert insights from our Comprehensive Guide to Treatment & Surgery Costs in India.
2. Does Insurance Cover Craniotomy Surgery Expenses In India?
Insurance coverage exists for such surgical procedures, yet patients need to confirm policy conditions with their insurance provider.
3. How Long Is The Typical Hospital Stay For Craniotomy Surgery?
Patients need to remain in hospital for between three days up to ten days based on their medical recovery as well as any complications that may arise.
4. Are There Financing Options Available For This Surgery In India?
Yes, several medical institutions provide Equipment Maintenance Installment options, and patients can obtain Third-party Medical Loans through approved sources.
5. How Does The Cost In India Compare To The US & UK?
Craniotomy procedures in India deliver much more cost-effective services by charging prices that are substantially lower than those available in US and UK facilities.
6. What Factors Can Increase The Cost Of Craniotomy Surgery?
The price of craniotomy surgery depends on procedure difficulty and surgeon experience level, as well as the quality of medical facilities and necessary post-surgical care.
7. Is There A Difference In Cost Between Private & Government Hospitals?
Yes, the higher costs at private hospitals surpass government hospitals because government institutions have different levels of facilities and service provisions.
8. Do Metropolitan Cities Have Higher Surgery Costs Than Smaller Cities?
Generally, yes. The expenses of metropolitan areas rise because of elevated demand patterns and increased business expenses.
9. Are There Additional Costs Beyond The Surgery Itself?
Yes, patients must expect to cover the expense of pre-operative testing and rehabilitation care, besides medications and post-operative appointment visits.
10. Can International Patients Avail Of Craniotomy Surgery In India?
Absolutely. India serves as a well-known medical tourism hub that provides top-quality healthcare services at reasonable prices.